Catholic Charities Hawaiʻi Vice President of Philanthropy Be-Jay Kodama joined fellow local fundraising leaders at Chaminade University for a meaningful conversation about the spirit of Kīnāʻole and its role in major gifts fundraising.
The panel was moderated by Patti Look, Principal of The FundDevelopment Group, and featured Kristi Bates, Senior Director of Major Gifts & Donor Engagement at the YMCA of Honolulu, Karla Zarate-Ramirez, Vice President for Development at the University of Hawaiʻi Foundation, and Be-Jay.
In Hawaiʻi, successful philanthropy begins with relationships.
Kīnāʻole means doing the right thing, in the right way, at the right time, with the right intention—and building relationships worthy of trust.
The presentation explored how trust, deep listening and authentic stewardship can create stronger, more meaningful relationships between donors and the organizations they support.
Panelists shared stories and practical lessons about building relationships before making an ask, understanding a donor’s goals, and creating opportunities for generosity to align with shared purpose.
The conversation also highlighted the importance of patience, humility, culture and aloha in creating relationships that can grow over time.
Mahalo to everyone who joined the conversation and continues to help shape a more authentic and meaningful approach to philanthropy in Hawaiʻi.
